Samsung Unveils Eighth-Generation Foldable Lineup with New Mid-Range Fold8 and AI Incentives
Samsung’s latest Galaxy Z Fold8, Fold8 Ultra, and Flip8 devices share a common processor and display technology, but diverge significantly in camera systems and physical design, with preorders now open alongside a six-month Google AI Pro trial.
Samsung has officially launched its eighth-generation foldable smartphone series, introducing the Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra, the new Galaxy Z Fold8, and the Galaxy Z Flip8. The release marks a strategic expansion of the company’s foldable ecosystem, with the new Fold8 positioned as a distinct middle-ground option between the flagship Ultra and the compact Flip8. Alongside the handsets, the company announced updates to its wearable division with the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 and Galaxy Watch9.
All three new smartphones are built on a shared hardware foundation, utilising Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, 12GB of RAM, and Dynamic AMOLED 2X displays capable of reaching 3,000 nits of peak brightness. The devices also feature IP48 water and dust resistance, Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, and Ultra Wideband support. Samsung has implemented a Flex Titanium layer in the Fold8 Ultra and Fold8 to reduce the visible crease and enhance durability, while all models include an anti-reflective finish to minimise glare.
The Galaxy Z Fold8 Ultra remains the top-tier offering, featuring a 5,000 mAh silicon-carbon battery and a comprehensive camera array. This includes a 200-megapixel main shooter, a 50-megapixel ultrawide lens, and a 10-megapixel telephoto lens with 3X optical zoom. The device opens to an 8-inch inner display, providing an expansive canvas for productivity and media consumption, while maintaining a slim profile when closed.
In contrast, the new Galaxy Z Fold8 adopts a wider, shorter form factor with a 7.6-inch inner display and a 4:3 aspect ratio. Priced at $1,899.99, it weighs 201 grams, making it the lightest large-screen foldable on the market. However, it sacrifices the telephoto lens found in the Ultra, relying on a dual 50-megapixel setup for wide and ultrawide photography, along with 10X digital zoom. The battery capacity is slightly reduced to 4,800 mAh compared to the Ultra’s 5,000 mAh cell.
The Galaxy Z Flip8 targets users prioritising portability, boasting a redesigned chassis that Samsung describes as the thinnest and lightest flip phone in the world. It features a 6.9-inch main screen and a 4,300 mAh battery, with a more basic camera system comprising a 50-megapixel main sensor and a 12-megapixel ultrawide lens. Video recording on the Flip8 is capped at 4K, whereas the Fold models support 8K recording.
Samsung is also updating its smartwatch lineup, with the Galaxy Watch Ultra2 featuring a Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset and a display reaching 5,000 nits, designed for pro-level sport tracking and diving metrics. The standard Galaxy Watch9 includes a 390 mAh battery, representing a 20 percent increase over the previous generation, and focuses on personalised health recommendations.
The new smartphones are available for preorder directly through Samsung. Buyers receive a six-month trial of Google AI Pro, integrating artificial intelligence features into the device experience. Samsung notes that devices sold through its website are unlocked, facilitating easier carrier switching and international travel via eSIM.
